B&N Adds Google Play Store to NOOK HD and NOOK HD+

Looks like the Nook Store just wasn’t cutting it when it comes to moving units. Barnes & Noble has made the undoubtedly tough decision to allow Google Play onto its Nook HD and HD+ tablets, opening up its own online store to some tough competition.

Not only is Google Play coming to the Nook, it’s coming in full force. Nook owners will have unlimited access, meaning any app (even Kindle) can be downloaded and any eBook can be purchased. It’s hard to see the Nook store standing up to that, but perhaps Barnes & Noble felt the need to shake things up in the face of competition.

Future Nook HD and HD+ units will have Google Play pre-loaded, while current owners will be able to download an over-the-air software update using Wi-Fi. That update will also include Chrome, Gmail, YouTube, Google Search and Google Maps.